~  ~  A Life Quilted with Love  ~  ~  

The family of Kathy Elizabeth Handford of Elk Point, Alberta is deeply saddened to announce her passing on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the age of 72 rich and beautiful years.

Our mom, Kathy, will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all her family and friends, most especially by her children: Charlie (Kellie) Handford, Sally (Scott) Nydokus, Megan (Tom) Musgrave; grandchildren: Coralynn (Mitch), Shaylynn (Jacob), Katelynn, Matthew (Shaelynn), Hayley, Karley; great-grandchildren: Linkin, Jane, Elizabeth, Elora, Eden; brother: Neil (Diane); sisters: Ginger (Terry), Evelyn (Myron), Susan (Ray), Brenda (Danny), Sharon (Ron); as well as numerous nieces, nephews and close friends. 

Kathy was predeceased by her beloved partner: James Bartee; father: Mel Handford “Grampsy”; mother: Mary Handford.

If you knew our mom, chances are you owned something she made throughout the years of her life.  Sewing and crafting were her love languages and she shared that gift by teaching, creating and generously giving to others.  You could find her quilting for days with her family and friends.  She lovingly made countless quilts for family, charity and for those needing a homemade hug without the hug!

Mom loved many things over the years, beginning with all her siblings; and stories of living on the farm.  She worked hard her whole life but always made time to have some laughs, play games, enjoy music, and meticulously work on her cross-stich pictures, scrubbies or quilts … lots of quilts.  You could also find her enjoying a smoke and a coffee while chatting with long-time friends and enjoying the outdoors, from campfires to campfire chicken!  Mom really felt happy helping all her favorite people and found extra love with her dogs, Shadow and Karma, a.k.a. the girls.

Mom was full of pride in her children, enjoyed time with her grandchildren and loved to see and hear stories about the great-grandchildren.  You knew her heart was full after a visit and Mom often showed her love by sending you home with a box of bits and bobs, scrubbies, or an armful of baking.

Mom may have been tiny, but she was a powerhouse with a big heart and it just wouldn’t be right to not mention her stubbornness and feisty personality which she passed down through the generations.  Despite any challenge, she always put others first and she will be leaving behind a legacy of love, generosity, and beautifully crafted memories.  She left this world wrapped in her quilt by her loving children and spouses – tears flowing, stories shared, music playing and a lifetime honored.  We love you, Mom.

~ ~ ~

In accordance with her wishes no funeral service will be held.  In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes in memory of Kathy may be sent to Second Chance Trail Ride Society, P.O. Box 94, Elk Point, AB  T0A 1A0 (https://secondchancetrailride.ca/contact/).

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Kathy Elizabeth Handford, please visit our Tree Store.